The Madison County Recovery Allies (MCRA) has officially moved into a new facility, the Recovery Community Center, which is significantly larger than its previous location. This transition marks a pivotal moment for the organization, which aims to enhance support services for individuals facing substance use and behavioral health disorders. MCRA Director Karen Moser highlighted the organization’s growth, noting that they assisted 150 individuals in the past year alone.
The new center, housed in a former church, offers a variety of resources and activities designed to aid recovery. Open to anyone seeking support, the center features a recreation room equipped with snacks, board games, and social activities. Clients can also participate in group sessions like “SMART Recovery,” an evidence-based recovery program, or take part in community events, such as card tournaments on weekends.
In a recent gathering, clients from MCRA shared a Thanksgiving dinner with members of Big Creek Church, emphasizing the strong community ties that the organization promotes. Moser explained that many staff members are “peers” who have experienced recovery themselves, which helps them connect more effectively with clients.
The expansion into the new facility was made possible through the generosity of an anonymous donor, allowing MCRA to secure a building ten times the size of its prior office. Though MCRA pays for the building, this support has empowered the organization to strengthen its outreach initiatives.
Moser expressed her hope for a future where the need for recovery services diminishes. “I’d love to shut the doors because everybody’s in recovery and nobody needs us,” she stated. Nevertheless, she acknowledged that the demand for services has been on the rise, indicating a growing recognition of recovery needs in the community.
MCRA’s services extend beyond immediate recovery support. The organization helps clients with various needs, including food stamp applications, budget planning, and employment connections. A significant challenge remains the lack of transportation options available for clients, which Moser identifies as a critical area for future development.
Since its inception in 2022, MCRA has expanded its staff from three to eight members, with plans for further growth. The organization has recently begun outreach to neighboring counties, including Iron, Bollinger, and St. Francois, where recovery housing is currently unavailable. Moser noted that many of the individuals seeking help are not residents of MCRA’s housing program but are actively seeking support from their homes.
MCRA is recognized by the Department of Mental Health and other organizations as an “evidence-based recovery” program. This status reinforces its commitment to utilizing scientific research and data to inform recovery practices. Moser emphasized that while faith can be a component for some clients, the program is designed to meet each individual’s unique needs.
As MCRA continues to grow and reach more individuals, Moser remains optimistic about the future. “People are asking for a way out. They’re asking for help, they’re asking for connection,” she said. The momentum within the community is palpable, with a growing number of individuals in recovery influencing others to seek assistance.
The Recovery Community Center stands as a beacon of hope for those on the path to recovery, fostering an environment of support and connection. MCRA’s ongoing efforts are not only changing lives but also reshaping the community’s approach to recovery.
